Salah inspires Egypt to 2-1 win over Zimbabwe
By Tosin Omojola –
Mohamed Salah emerged the hero for Egypt on Monday night, as his decisive strike sealed a 2-1 comeback victory for the Pharaohs over Zimbabwe in their opening match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations holding in Morocco.
Zimbabwe stunned the seven-time African champions with a 20th-minute strike, courtesy of Prince Dube, who capitalised on a rare opportunity to shoot past goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.
The Egyptians then responded swiftly, turning the heat on the Zimbabweans, who were forced to sit deep in their own half.
Egypt created several clear chances to restore parity but were repeatedly frustrated by Zimbabwe’s disciplined defensive display.
Omar Marmoush came closest in the first half, forcing Zimbabwe goalkeeper Washington Arubi into a fine save as Egypt continued to pile on the pressure.
The Zimbabweans’ resilience was eventually broken in the 64th minute when Marmoush unleashed a powerful drive that flew past Arubi to level for the North Africans.
While Zimbabwe battled to hold on for a draw, Egypt relentlessly searched for the second goal.
Salah rose to the occasion as he gathered strength and composure inside the box to calmly slot home the winning goal, securing all three points for the Pharaohs and establishing their title favourites tag.
